Mission Statement: to assist the integration of foreign residents living in Spain
By Johanna Gardener •
Published: 01 Nov 2024 • 13:43
• 5 minutes read
Marbella has a buzzing real estate market with some of the best investment options in Spain
Credit:X:@Lord_Sugar
Nestled along the radiant Costa del Sol, Marbella has evolved over recent decades into a premier global hotspot—not only as a glamorous escape for celebrities and millionaires but also as a lucrative destination for property investors.
Marbella, on the Costa del Sol has been growing exponentially for several decades. Not only a top choice for celebrities and millionaires, it has also become a haven for expat communities, international tourists and those looking for a wholesome retirement. The good news is that, thanks to this and to its unbeatable location on the coast, Marbella is among the top locations for real estate investment right now and property analysts predict that this is not going to change soon as foreign direct investment in real estate and local businesses has generated great confidence in the property market. Let’s start with the fact that Marbella has a lion’s share of some of the most expensive, most luxurious houses in Spain. A recent article details the unimaginable beauty of some of these homes on the market. This is not only attractive for savvy investors with a few million to invest but is also a hyper-efficient magnet for those wishing to rent or buy in the area with rental options for tourists being a winning game plan.
Why are people choosing to invest in Marbella?
So, why are people choosing Marbella? Simple answer: Why not? There is a myriad of reasons why Marbella has become a hub for high-end lifestyle connoisseurs, sports fanatics and sun worshippers. This is not to mention its backdrop of mountains and coastal beauty. Marbella quite simply has it all. It boasts an enviable location on Spain’s southern coast – which is always a top selling point with tourists, residents and property investors. It prides itself on its 320 days of sunshine a year – a feat not achieved by many. Its mild winters mean that lifestyle options are perennial, where rainfall or cold snaps don’t tend to touch the sides.
Another key bonus is its practicality and plethora of key amenities. Around a 45-minute drive to Málaga City Centre with excellent transport links to the City, the airport and other provinces across Málaga, Marbella serves as an exceptional base for being at the centre of it all. Healthwise, its endless range of recreational and sports activities are guaranteed to keep anyone’s pecker up and studies have shown that sunny environments such as this can enhance mood and mental well-being, ensuring a high quality of life. For healthcare services, residents can opt for private healthcare plans, which in abundance or high quality care from public services if they are eligible. Marbella is close to several key public and private hospitals including: Hospital Costa del Sol, Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella and HC Marbella International Hospital. Due to the dynamic expat community in Marbella and surrounding areas, many of the health services are English-speaking – the same to be said for legal and educational services.
Family matters: a range of international schools in Marbella
So, what about education? You’re thinking about investing in property but not sure about the options for your children. Great news! Marbella has some of the best British and international schools on the Costa del Sol including Swans College, Laude San Pedro and Aloha College. These schools offer the British curriculum, as well as the International Baccalaureate system – an ideal choice for expat families moving to Marbella.
For leisure and dining out, Marbella has what it takes. From Michelin-starred cuisine in Puerto Banús’ Puente Romano resort to diverse tapas bars offering typical Andalucian cuisine, it is the idyllic spot for food lovers of all tastes and preferences. To make a night of it, why not sign up to the annual Starlite Festival for next July or August or the Marbella International Film festival in early October. The two events attract masses of fans, so for property investors, consider maximising the potential of your home for rental at these crucial peak periods.
Marbella s real estate market is booming and set to continue
That takes us onto Marbella’s real estate market – one of the most developed and exciting in Spain. If it wasn’t enough that Malaga is in the top three provinces for investment in Spain, Marbella is quite possibly one of the key regions spearheading its rise to the top spot on the charts. It can be quite easy to fall into the trap of stereotypes and Marbella is admittedly famous for its luxury villas. But avoid being thrown by this! Marbella has a diverse range of properties from hillside fincas (rural plots) to smaller townhouses in the old town or commercial centre. Marbella expands to other areas too including San Pedro de Alcántara or Elvíria – often considered more affordable property options. If it is high-end properties you’ve set your sights on, try looking on the Golden Mile or the Sierra Blanca region, where deluxe villas are common finds. Modern apartment complexes are always on the rise and nowadays, come complete with gyms, spas and communal gardens. For those who want a challenge, look for renovation projects and rebuild your own dream home. Options are endless and the many English-speaking real estate advisors and legal services will provide guidance every step of the way in your own language. As said before: Marbella equals tourism. During the summer and winter months, tourists flock to the Costa del Sol. This provides excellent opportunities for short term or tourist rentals as a second home (although be aware to check out new Spanish legislation on this).
Excellent tax bonuses and incentives for foreign investors in Marbella residents and non-residents
For more legal and financial concerns, it is reassuring to know that local governments subsiside and offer incentives for business start ups and also for sustainable development in the area. This is hugely attractive for the entrepreneurial mindset seeking growth. Spain offers various tax incentives for foreign investors and due to huge foreign investment in recent years, Marbella’s status as a premier property investment destination has been enhanced. There are also capital gains tax exemptions for non-residents, meaning that you can invest in property without actually living in Marbella full-time. Other highlights include reduced VAT rates on new properties and the Golden Visa program, which grants residency for those from Schengen Area countries, when property investment surpasses a certain threshold.
There s no place like Marbella for property investment
Investing in Marbella offers a unique opportunity to become part of a thriving real estate market that’s both secure and promising, with strong potential for growth. With its enviable Mediterranean location, vibrant expat community, and wealth of leisure activities—from fine dining to world-class sports facilities—Marbella promises an exceptional quality of life. Coupled with top-tier education, healthcare, and legal services, and an unbeatable 320 days of sunshine each year, Marbella truly stands out as an ideal investment destination for those seeking both stability and lifestyle in one of Europe’s most desirable regions.
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Written by
Johanna Gardener
Originally from Manchester, UK and with a degree in English with Modern Foreign Languages, she has been a permanent resident in Spain for the past 12 years. Many of these years, she has spent working as a secondary school teacher, as well as in journalism, editing and marketing. She currently lives in the historic centre of Malaga, where she enjoys writing, walking and animals.
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